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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 27: Zak Cummings weighs in during the UFC weigh-in event at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on August 27, 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Zak Cummings

TRAINING: Because of the time difference I’ve been doing all my hard sparring and workouts in the morning. Evenings consist of technique and strength and conditioning. I also swim a lot in the late evenings.

When and why did you start training for fighting? I started training in 2005, originally to cross train over the summer while between wrestling seasons. Then once I was done wrestling, I started training more seriously to get back in shape, with no desire to fight. After about six months, a fight presented itself and after a 41 second submission win I was hooked.

Do you have any heroes? I've always looked up to my family, and guys like Cael Sanderson, Rich Franklin, and Anderson Silva are guys I've looked to in the athletic world.

What does it mean for you to fight in the UFC? Fighting in the UFC verifies all the years of hard work I've put in and sacrifices I've made. Plus, it gives me the opportunity to test myself against the best guys in the world.

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? Earned an Associates Degree in Business Administration at Meramec Community College while wrestling. Still working towards a Bachelor Degree in Exercise and Movement Science at Missouri State University.

What was your job before you started fighting? Full-Time Student and worked as a Lab Assistant.

Specific accomplishments in amateur competition? 2x NJCAA Wrestling National Qualifier, 6-0 MMA and held a title.

Getty Images reserves the right to pursue unauthorized users of this image or clip. If you violate our intellectual property you may be liable for: actual damages, loss of income, and profits you derive from the use of this image or clip, and, where appropriate, the costs of collection and/or statutory damages up to $150,000 (USD).